Petty Theft Lawyer in Miami

Stolen Goods Over $300

Petty theft, also known as petit theft, is the crime of stealing property valued less than $300 dollars that does not belong to you. Once the value of the stolen items exceeds $300, the theft crime is then classified as a felony charge of grand theft. These crimes are commonly associated with shoplifting because they involve lower-dollar items. Petty theft is more of a default charge for all those crimes of property that do not fall under the category of grand theft. It is sometimes referred to as "petit theft" because the crime involves stealing a small amount.

In order for the state prosecutor to convict you of petty theft, they must prove that you stole goods with the intention of depriving the other person of their right to or benefit of the property. They must also prove that you took the property for your own personal use, or for the use of another who was not titled to that property. At Parks & Braxton, PA, we are familiar with the various defenses that can be erected on your behalf to help you avoid charges of this nature. A defense against this charge that we could use is fighting to prove that you were in equal ownership of the property or fighting to say that the property had no monetary value to begin with.

Fighting Your Misdemeanor Charge

Petty theft can be classified into various degrees depending on the value of the goods stolen. If the amount was worth between $100 and $300 and you have a prior conviction of theft, you will face charges for Petit Theft of the First Degree and may be liable for penalties including one year in jail, one year of probation and fines up to $1000. Stealing less than $100 of property is classified as Petit Theft of the Second Degree and can include penalties such as six months in jail, six months’ probation and fines up to $450.

Both of these crimes are serious matters, and if you are convicted of petty theft your driver's license will be suspended for 6 months for the first offense and one year for each addition conviction. Our firm has extensive experience handling criminal charges in Miami and we provide high-quality legal representation for every one of our clients. Our Miami criminal defense lawyers have successfully handled thousands of cases, and we are ready to take on your case today. We can take your call 24 / 7, including nights, holidays, and weekends. Don't wait any longer to call our law firm.